Piedmont, SC— As National Minority Health Month comes to a close, The Blood Connection (TBC) is calling on Black and Brown donors across the Lowcountry to step up to the plate for sickle cell anemia patients at a community blood drive in downtown Charleston. Generous donors can roll up their sleeves on Tuesday, April 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, the home of the Charleston RiverDogs.
Sickle cell anemia disproportionately affects minority communities, and those living with the disease often require regular blood transfusions. Because treatment only works when the blood is a close ethnic match, this call to action is critical to ensure the donor pool reflects Charleston’s community diversity.
This is part of TBC’s continued effort to raise awareness about health disparities and patients in need. While the drive highlights the urgent and often overlooked need for blood donations from minority donors to support those living with sickle cell disease, every donor has the power to make a difference. Cancer warriors, trauma patients, and babies in the NICU are counting on all eligible donors, regardless of race, to give the gift of life.
The donation process itself takes a maximum of 15 minutes, but the impact can last a lifetime. Donors will receive a limited-edition RiverDogs jersey and two game day tickets as a thank you for your lifesaving gift of blood at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park on Tuesday April 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“This isn’t just about blood, it’s about equity in healthcare,” said Amaris Jenkins, a spokesperson for The Blood Connection. “I’ve seen Charleston come together time and time again, and we’re hoping to see that same heart and unity at this drive. We’re calling on everyone, especially minority donors, to help ensure patients have access to the care they need.”
Through its ongoing partnership with the Charleston RiverDogs, TBC continues to meet people where they are and build a stronger, healthier Lowcountry. The RiverDogs has long recognized the constant need for community lifesavers, and this is another opportunity for fans to step off the sidelines and into action.